What are Macronutrients?Calories are important when trying to dial in your nutrition but calories break down even further into 3 macronutrients- proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. When trying to understand macronutrients, you have to understand what each macro does.

PROTEINIf you’ve been in the fitness world for more than a few days, you’ve probably heard of protein/protein shakes. There’s a reason for this. As we work out, we break down our muscle fibers in order to grow it back stronger and bigger. To be able to do this, we need protein in our diets. Protein helps restore that muscle! Protein can be found in meats primarily and of course, protein shakes. For every gram of protein you eat, you are eating 4 calories.

FATSNow, I know there’s been a fad out there that says low-fat is the way to go but when you cut out fat, you’re cutting out means of energy as well! When doing daily activities like walking, cleaning the house, or working, we are primarily burning fat for energy so it is important to consume it! It is important to get in healthy fats, which include nuts and seeds, oils, and foods like avocados. Fats are an energy source, and without them, our bodies cannot function properly. For every gram of fat that you eat, you intake 9 calories. And this is why fat can potentially be bad. It can really get you up there in the calories if you aren’t aware of how much you eat.

CARBOHYDRATESEverybody seems to be afraid of this one. Everywhere you turn you see people trying to stay away from the breads and potatoes, which makes some sense. But, carbs are an energy source as well as fat is! Carbs can be used quickly as energy and if you are doing an intense workout during the day, you need some before and after to help recover! Carbs and protein go hand in hand in the recovery process and will allow you to perform at maximum potential if you do use them the right way. For every gram of carbs you eat, you intake 4 calories. Don’t be afraid of eating this one. It won’t harm you! There are plenty of good carbs out there including fruit, veggies, and potatoes!

RECAPEach macro is important in its own way. There isn’t one that is more important than the other. They all work together and they all can help you achieve your fitness goals regardless of what they may be. If you are looking for help in weight loss, weight gain, or performance, they will all be important for you to understand and utilize!

Get Started with Triumph Fitness' Nutrition Coaching ProgramNutrition is the foundation for optimal health, weight, and performance. Our nutrition program is designed to help individuals make the behavioral change with achievement to create habits that will last a lifetime. No shakes, no short-term. We do this through a three-phased approach. Click here to learn more!